Trein & Bus

My tickets from today's travels.

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Meet Zwarte Piet

Ok. I want to begin this post with an explanation that you may find this offensive, but it's a Dutch tradition...this would never fly in America.

"Black Pete" can be good and he can be bad following around St. Nick - giving kids candy if they are good. OR if they are bad he might beat them with a tree branch or stuff them in a bag and take them to Spain. The choice is up to you kids! All of this takes place on December 5.

Follow the link below to learn more about "Black Pete":
http://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zwarte_Piet?wasRedirected=true

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Training to Heerlen

Mrs. Huffaker dropped me at the Sittard train station this morning so that I can get to Heerlen by the intercity train. The ticket kiosks no longer take cash so you have to use a pin card or pay by cash at the counter. Without a Dutch/EU bank account or pin I am left to the cash option. So I have my second class ticket for €4.20 and now I am standing by the spoor (track) waiting for a train that is late - which isn't too typical around here.

Not sure what I will do first in Heerlen, but I will walk about and figure out my plan...it is SO nice not to have a schedule!

I am going to catch a bus to Brunssum this afternoon and hopefully meet up with my friend Sheila before heading to my old school to meet Mrs. Huffaker to head to Schinnen for a workout at the gym.

Chilly and blustery today but no rain in the forecast. The cool and clean air feels great in my chest - I am trying to take in all the sights my eyes can spy before it is time to go home.

Dad is off digging with the guys in Luxembourg today - I was invited but politely declined as I am not too interested in being wet and covered in mud (without appropriate clothing) for an entire day digging up WWII relics. I will just enjoy looking at what they bring back tonight! Shopping will be much more entertaining!
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